Episode
Alcohol, Fun & Identity: Who Are You Without the Wine? Ft Marrilee Burke
- Published
- May 25, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 862
- Processing state
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Summary
What if the hardest part about drinking less… isn’t actually the alcohol? What if it’s the fear that life will become boring without it? In Part 2 of this powerful conversation with licensed psychotherapist Merrilee Burke , LMFT, we dive into the emotional connection between alcohol, fun, identity, creativity, and play — especially for women who have spent years using wine as their “off switch” after constantly taking care of everyone else. We unpack: Why alcohol becomes tied to fun, relaxation, and connection The surprising reason many women struggle to “just relax” How productivity culture disconnects us from play Why creativity and hobbies can help calm the nervous system The fear of changing socially when you start drinking less How to reconnect with yourself without becoming “boring” We also talk about the very real identity shifts that happen when alcohol has been woven into your friendships, relationships, routines, and social life for years. This episode is validating, eye-opening, and full of practical ways to start creating more joy, fun, and presence without relying on alcohol to create the experience for you. Because the goal isn’t to become less fun.... It’s to stop needing alcohol to access the fun that was already inside of you. This is Part 2 of a 3-part series. Connect with Merrilee: merrileeburke.com If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss Part 3 — where we dive into labels, identity, addictive personalities, and rewriting your story around alcohol and yourself. Need more support? Join my cohort starting June 1 ! Learn more at https://www.ericamallery.com/group-coaching